25214, Winifrede, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25214, Winifrede, West Virginia is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.58 percent of the residents in 25214 has some form of health insurance. 41.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.13 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 25214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 291 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25214. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 53 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 156 health care providers accessible to residents in 25214, Winifrede, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Winifrede, WV (ZIP Code 25214)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Winifrede, West Virginia (ZIP code 25214) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' that reflects the current state of healthcare access and quality within this specific community.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. These doctors serve as the entry point into the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. In Winifrede, the density of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Determining the exact number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code is the initial step. Data from the West Virginia Board of Medicine, along with information from insurance providers and local healthcare directories, is essential to establish this baseline.

Once the number of physicians is known, calculating the physician-to-patient ratio becomes crucial. This ratio, often expressed as the number of residents per physician, provides a clear picture of the accessibility of care. A higher ratio suggests a potential shortage of physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care, particularly for routine checkups and preventative services. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates a more favorable environment for patients seeking timely medical attention. The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provides benchmarks for physician shortages, which can be used to contextualize the Winifrede ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code requires examining several factors. This includes the physicians' board certifications, their years of experience, and patient satisfaction scores. Online review platforms, such as Healthgrades and Vitals, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences, highlighting practices known for their patient-centered care, clear communication, and effective treatment. Furthermore, the presence of accreditations from reputable organizations, such as the Joint Commission, can indicate a commitment to quality and safety.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Winifrede. Telemedicine, which involves the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, can significantly improve access to care by reducing the need for travel and expanding the reach of specialists. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves determining which primary care practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. Factors such as the availability of reliable internet access within the community also play a crucial role in the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is a key indicator of community health. Assessing the mental health landscape in Winifrede involves identifying the number of mental health providers practicing within the ZIP code, as well as the availability of mental health services at local clinics and hospitals. The presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and substance abuse treatment programs is also important. Furthermore, understanding the integration of mental health services with primary care practices is essential for ensuring comprehensive and coordinated care.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Winifrede, WV (ZIP code 25214) is a composite metric, reflecting the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable environment, characterized by a low physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest potential challenges in accessing and receiving adequate healthcare. The score should be interpreted in conjunction with the specific data points used to calculate it.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of Winifrede. The age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the socioeconomic factors affecting the community all influence healthcare needs and access. Understanding these factors is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the population.

The analysis should also consider the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians serve as the foundation of the healthcare system, access to specialists is often necessary for managing complex medical conditions. Identifying the presence of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and endocrinologists, within a reasonable travel distance from Winifrede is essential for a complete assessment of healthcare access.

Furthermore, the analysis should assess the affordability of healthcare services. The cost of medical care, including insurance premiums, co-pays, and out-of-pocket expenses, can significantly impact access to care. Information on the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices and the availability of financial assistance programs is essential for understanding the financial burden of healthcare within the community.

The overall health score is a dynamic metric. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The arrival of new physicians, the expansion of telemedicine services, and the implementation of new healthcare initiatives can all impact the score. Regular monitoring and analysis are crucial for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that the community has access to the healthcare it needs.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health of Winifrede, WV (ZIP code 25214) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis, coupled with demographic and socioeconomic considerations, provides a nuanced understanding of the community's healthcare landscape.

To visualize this data, and to explore the healthcare landscape of Winifrede and surrounding areas in detail, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide interactive visualizations of physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare resource availability, empowering you with the data you need to make informed decisions about your health and the health of your community.